The plight of Kashmiri Pandits has been a subject of immense concern. Once a favored segment during the Dogra rule, their population has dwindled significantly over the years due to persecution and threats from radical Islamists and militants.
In a recent development, Haji Akbar Afridi, known as the Commander of the notorious Lashkar-e-Islam group, was reportedly killed by unknown gunmen in Bara, Khyber district. The incident has sent shockwaves throughout the region, sparking concerns over escalating violence and extremism.
Lashkar-e-Islam, known for its militant activities and extremist ideology, has a history of issuing threats and instigating fear among various communities.
Reportedly Haji Akbar Afridi, Commander of the Lashkar-e-Islam, was killed by in Bara, Khyber district. Lashkar-e-Islam has threatened Kashmiri Pandits in the past asking them "to leave Kashmir or get killed". Akbar was working for ISI since 2014. pic.twitter.com/HNqGL49Hgj
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Haji Akbar Afridi, Commander of the Lashkar-e-Islam, was killed by unidentified gunmen in Bara, Khyber district. Meanwhile the group has released a statement clarifying that commander Akbar surrendered to the Pakistan army before 2014 and was no longer associated with the group pic.twitter.com/sDukyvOQbr
— Khyber Scoop (@KhyberScoop)In the past, the group targeted Kashmiri Pandits, issuing chilling warnings demanding their exodus from Kashmir or facing dire consequences. Furthermore, revelations have surfaced regarding Akbar's association with Pakistan's intelligence agency, ISI, since 2014.
The plight of Kashmiri Pandits has been a subject of immense concern. Once a favored segment during the Dogra rule, their population has dwindled significantly over the years due to persecution and threats from radical Islamists and militants.
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The exodus of Kashmiri Pandits reached alarming levels in the 1990s, especially following the heinous events of January 19, 1990. On that fateful day, mosques issued decrees branding Kashmiri Pandits as Kafirs (non-believers), unleashing a wave of terror and violence against them.
Men were forced to leave Kashmir, convert to Islam, or face death, while their homes were systematically targeted for looting and destruction.